15 International Stadiums Known for the Greatest Underdog Victories

13. Estadio Azteca, Mexico City – North Korea Beats Italy

The Estadio Azteca has hosted many iconic matches, but one of its most surprising moments came during the 1966 FIFA World Cup. North Korea, a team with no international pedigree, faced footballing giants Italy in a must-win group stage match. The Italians, heavy favorites, expected an easy victory. North Korea shocked the world by playing with grit, discipline, and determination. A solitary goal from Pak Doo-Ik sealed a historic 1-0 victory, sending the Italian team crashing out of the tournament. The result reverberated far beyond the pitch, symbolizing the unpredictability of football and cementing North Korea’s place in World Cup history.